This is the Maccarello Family, my first family portrait in the apple orchard.

Who I am!

  My name is Judy Contreras, I’m a photographer servicing mainly the Hudson Valley area. My goal always is to bring out feelings and raw emotions, using both natural and artificial lighting. A lot of my work currently reflects more of a bold and colorful vibe, highlighting the depth of those emotions.

   I have always been fascinated with capturing memories since I was a teenager. I would take pictures of literally everyone and everything I could. As I got older started to explore my skills more, I began taking scenic pictures in the woods and quickly realized that I loved photographing wildlife the most.

    A coworker of mine saw my images and loved them so much, she asked if I could photograph her family. My first thought was that I don’t do portrait work, but then there I was photographing her family in an apple orchard. She posted the photos on her social media page, got a ton of positive feedback, and soon after that I began getting inquiries. That’s when I officially decided to start my photography business. I began booking all kinds of different projects, including family portraits, maternity shoots, newborn shoots, headshots, baby showers, birthdays, christenings, engagements and even a few weddings.
   
    Being self-taught, I wanted to learn how to hone in on my skills more, so I took a course at the Digital Photography Academy where I learned the fundamentals of the camera. I also had a great mentor who is also a brilliant photographer here in the Hudson Valley, Sweet Melissa Photography. Shortly after that, I took a lighting and location course with Katelyn James online and I am also a member of the Professional Photographers of America.

    Now six years and one pandemic later, I’m excited and eager to continue creating and exploring new ideas and adventures with both new and returning clients.